Home Blog Page 628

AIRBEAT ONE Festival 2025 Drops Final Line-Up With Afrojack, Armin van Buuren, Hardwell, and More

Eric Alper
-
0
AIRBEAT ONE Festival 2025 Drops Final Line-Up With Afrojack, Armin van Buuren, Hardwell, and More

The countdown is officially on for AIRBEAT ONE Festival 2025, as organizers reveal a blockbuster final line-up featuring more than 250 of the world’s leading electronic music talents. Running from July 9 to 13, 2025, the festival will transform the historic airfield at Neustadt-Glewe into a vibrant “Spain”-themed festival city, complete with six uniquely crafted stages and an atmosphere that promises to transport attendees straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.

Headlining the gargantuan Mainstage—spanning 180 meters in width and soaring 45 meters high—are global superstars whose names alone guarantee electrifying performances. Dutch Grammy® winner Afrojack will kick off his set with the pure festival energy fans have come to expect, while trance titan Armin van Buuren returns to deliver his signature uplifting melodies. Big-room powerhouse Hardwell follows with fresh anthems destined for dancefloors everywhere, and Steve Aoki rounds out the evening with his trademark cake-throwing spectacle. Rounding out this elite roster are Sebastian Ingrosso of Swedish House Mafia fame, Australia’s genre-defying Timmy Trumpet, psytrance pioneers Vini Vici, and hardstyle hero Brennan Heart—alongside a host of other top acts including ALOK, Amelie Lens, Boris Brejcha, Deborah de Luca, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, John Summit, Neelix, Oliver Heldens and W&W.

Techno aficionados can lose themselves on the Arena Stage, where the underground’s finest converge. Highlights include the enigmatic Italian duo 999999999 delivering rugged analog sets, Clara Cuvé spinning razor-sharp vinyl between techno and acid, and Oliver Heldens’ darker alter ego HI-LO wielding pulsing, high-voltage beats. Crowd-stirring performances will also come from Eli Brown, I Hate Models, Klangkuenstler and Kobosil, among others, ensuring a deep and immersive journey through contemporary techno’s frontiers.

For those craving harder sounds, the Harder Stage answers the call with an uncompromising hardcore and hardstyle assault. Miss K8 will reign supreme as the queen of hardcore, while D-Block & S-Te-Fan, Wildstylez and Sub Zero Project showcase melodic hardness at its finest. International hardcore icons Angerfist, Bass Modulators, Coone and Jebroer will join forces with fierce newcomers like Sickmode, Rooler and Thyron to deliver relentless kicks and earth-shaking drops.

The festival’s Terminal Stage offers chart-ready hits alongside homegrown favorites. Gestört aber Geil will unleash earworms and emotional peaks, Cascada returns live with her Eurodance classics, and Lum!x lights up the crowd with infectious pop-EDM hybrids. Also performing are Jerome, Fappe & Bru, 2 Engel & Charlie, Avaion, Le Shuuk & K-Paul and many more, creating a kaleidoscopic showcase of house, future bass and party anthems.

Psytrance enthusiasts will find their haven on the Second Stage, headlined by legends Ace Ventura and Ranji, whose trance-inducing soundscapes have defined the genre. Paul van Dyk brings his storied trance legacy to the stage, joined by Cosmic Gate, Aly & Fila, Ben Nicky and a host of rising stars like Alchimyst, Daora, Ghost Rider and Sajanka. Together, they will guide festival-goers through a deep-dive into hypnotic rhythms and transcendent melodies.

Nostalgia takes center stage on the Butterfly Stage, where the golden era of Eurodance and Hands-Up is reborn. Ian van Dahl revisits “Castles in the Sky,” while classics from 4 Strings, Brooklyn Bounce, Charly Lownoise, Scooter’s own Chris Nitro and DJ Dean evoke carefree party vibes. Mia Julia, House Rockerz, Da Hool and Aquagen round out this stage with high-octane, sing-along nostalgia.

With six intricately decorated stages, a setting that transports guests to Spain, and a roster of over 250 international superstars, AIRBEAT ONE Festival 2025 cements its status as one of Europe’s most significant electronic music gatherings. Presale Phase 2 tickets are available now for €169.99 (plus fees) at https://airbeat-one.myticket.de. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of sound, spectacle and summer spirit.

AIRBEAT ONE Festival is part of the DEAG Group. For full line-up details, news and travel information, visit www.airbeat-one.de or follow facebook.com/airbeatone, youtube.com/airbeatone00 and instagram.com/airbeatone.

Thom Yorke Unveils Haunting New Track ‘Dialing In’ For Apple TV+ Series ‘Smoke’

Eric Alper
-
0
Thom Yorke Unveils Haunting New Track ‘Dialing In’ For Apple TV+ Series ‘Smoke’

Thom Yorke (Radiohead, The Smile, you know who he is) has delivered the enchanting and hauntingly beautiful opening theme for Apple TV+’s forthcoming series Smoke. The single, called ‘Dialing In’ features Thom’s vocals alongside fragile glass-like bells, dancing like flames, unaware of the brooding atmosphere building like a steadily consuming fire beneath.

Existing Thom Yorke fans may recognise the track as one he’s previously performed live, now available for the first time on streaming platforms. Originally titled ‘Gawpers’, the unreleased track contained parallels with the themes of Smoke, having been fine-tuned to underscore the show’s themes even further. Pre-save it here.

“Working with Thom Yorke was as much an honour for me as working with Clint Eastwood, Martin Scorsese or Richard Price,” says Smoke creator and executive producer Dennis Lehane. “I’ve somehow been blessed with collaborating with living legends who were also formative influences on my own creative life. Thom is definitely that. In addition, he took a basic concept I gave him and delivered a song that perfectly embodies the show and absolutely crushes.”

‘Dialing In’ is out now in both standard and Atmos formats – hear it in the official Apple TV+ trailer for Smoke, also out today. Smoke launches globally on Apple TV+ June 27, 2025.

17 Incredible Early Sounds Preserved Forever by the National Recording Registry

Eric Alper
-
0
17 Incredible Early Sounds Preserved Forever by the National Recording Registry

Every year since 2002, the National Recording Preservation Board and members of the public have nominated recordings to be added to the National Recording Registry — an ever-growing list that celebrates America’s rich audio legacy. From revolutionary technologies to priceless cultural snapshots, the registry captures the sound of history as it unfolded. Here are 17 incredible early recordings, dating from the 1850s to the turn of the 20th century, that helped launch recorded sound into the future.

Phonautograms – Édouard-Léon Scott de Martinville (1853–1861)
The phonautograms are the very first known recordings of sound — made not to be heard, but seen as waveforms on paper. Over 150 years later, they were decoded and played back, allowing us to hear voices from the dawn of recording.

St. Louis Tinfoil Recording – Thomas Edison (1878)
Edison’s St. Louis tinfoil phonograph captured one of the earliest known playable recordings of human speech. It was lost to history for over a century before scientists recovered and digitized it in 2020.

1888 London Cylinder Recordings – George Gouraud (1888)
These recordings of Colonel Gouraud demonstrating Edison’s phonograph include the earliest known recorded performances of Arthur Sullivan’s work — a historic blend of British eloquence and cutting-edge American tech.

Around the World on the Phonograph – Thomas Edison (1888–1889)
Edison’s narrated journey introduces listeners to his phonograph while guiding them across the globe through a series of sound vignettes — audio storytelling at its Victorian finest.

Edison Talking Doll Cylinder – Unknown (1888)
This eerie, scratchy snippet of a child’s voice reciting nursery rhymes was embedded in an early talking doll. It’s as haunting as it is historic — a glimpse into toy innovation long before Toy Story.

Fifth Regiment March – Thomas Edison (1888–1889)
One of the earliest musical recordings, this march set the standard for how brass-heavy, patriotic tunes would sound on wax cylinders. It’s audio archaeology you can tap your foot to.

Pattison Waltz – Thomas Edison (1888–1889)
This sweet, swaying waltz captured on cylinder represents one of Edison’s first musical forays — delicate and graceful, it’s the 19th-century version of your favorite dance floor slow jam.

The Lord’s Prayer – Emile Berliner (1890)
Believed to be the first known disc recording, Berliner’s version of The Lord’s Prayer helped pivot recorded sound from cylinders to flat discs, paving the way for the modern record industry.

Passamaquoddy Indian Field Recordings – Jesse Walter Fewkes (1890)
Fewkes captured these extraordinary field recordings of Passamaquoddy tribal chants and prayers — the first ethnographic recordings of Native American voices, still echoing with spiritual significance.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star – Emile Berliner (1890)
Berliner’s gentle rendering of the beloved children’s classic stands as one of the earliest playable disc recordings. Simple, sweet, and strangely moving — a lullaby that outlived its singer by generations.

Vernacular Wax Cylinder Recordings – Various (c. 1890–1920)
A rich collection of everyday voices captured on wax, these recordings include folk songs, oral histories, and casual conversation — a priceless archive of accents, stories, and forgotten slang.

Benjamin Ives Gilman Collection – 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition
Recorded at Chicago’s famous World’s Fair, Gilman’s cylinders preserve music from diverse cultures on display — audio souvenirs from an exhibition that celebrated (and exoticized) global diversity.

Laughing Song – George W. Johnson (c. 1896)
One of the first Black recording stars, Johnson charmed listeners with his infectious laugh — a novelty hit that sold tens of thousands of cylinders and proved people would pay to hear joy on repeat.

Stars and Stripes Forever – Military Band (1897)
A thunderous rendition of Sousa’s patriotic classic, this early recording turned marching music into mass entertainment — giving listeners a burst of red, white, and boom before radio was even a thing.

Gypsy Love Song – Eugene Cowles (1898)
Cowles’ operatic baritone brings gravitas and warmth to this romantic ballad, offering listeners a rare preserved taste of 19th-century vocal technique and operetta performance.

Honolulu Cake Walk – Vess Ossman (1898)
Banjo master Vess Ossman gave this ragtime number its infectious bounce. One of the first pop instrumentals to sweep early recording markets, it helped bring syncopation into living rooms everywhere.

These early recordings remind us how far we’ve come — and how every musical innovation starts with a whisper, a march, or a child’s rhyme. Thanks to the National Recording Registry, these sonic time capsules will outlive us all, proving that even the faintest echoes of history deserve to be heard forever.

How to Design a Dream Hi-Fi System with the McIntosh MA9500

Eric Alper
-
0

By Mitch Rice

You don’t have to be deep in hi-fi forums or flipping through back issues of Stereophile to recognise those glowing blue meters. McIntosh isn’t just respected, it’s known. It’s made the leap from specialist darling to high-end mainstream without losing what made it great in the first place: uncompromising build quality, instantly recognisable design, and a sound that’s as powerful as it is refined.

The MA9500 amplifier is one of the finest examples of how the brand continues to evolve its legacy without compromise. For me, it was hearing it power a system that truly clicked—bass with spine, mids that breathe, and that wide, holographic stage that only comes from serious engineering. That moment has stayed with me. You may have had a similar one, or you’re chasing it.

Either way, you’re in the right place because building a system around the McIntosh MA9500 amplifier isn’t only about picking quality components. It’s about curating an experience. Whether you’re a vinyl purist, a streaming obsessive, or a digital all-rounder, I’ll make sure every component is worthy of what this amp can do.

Why Start with the McIntosh MA9500?

You don’t start with the MA9500 because it looks impressive, though with those signature glowing blue watt meters and solid glass front panel, it certainly does. You start here because it’s the kind of integrated amplifier that sets the tone for everything else. The MA9500 isn’t a supporting actor; it’s the lead.

Technical Excellence That Translates into Emotion

With 300 watts per channel of solid-state power at its core, the McIntosh MA 9500 can easily supply even the most power-hungry speakers. It features McIntosh’s Autoformer™ technology, meaning you get full power at 2, 4, or 8 ohms, with no compromises on speaker matching.

The double filter capacity of the MA9500 is a new feature, surpassing that of its predecessor, the MA9000. That translates into an increase in dynamic headroom from 1.8 dB to 2.8 dB. In listening terms? Better handling of musical peaks, more space around instruments, and a stronger sense of “you are there” realism.

The integrated DA2 Digital Audio Module supports optical, HDMI ARC, coaxial, USB, and more. It supports high-resolution playback up to DSD512 and 384kHz/32-bit PCM. So whether you’re pulling detail from a meticulously pressed vinyl or a high-res Qobuz stream, the MA9500 is fluent in all formats.

Who Is It For?

With 10 analogue inputs (2 balanced, 6 unbalanced, 1 MC, and 1 MM), you’re free to build the system that suits your style, without running out of room.

  • Vinyl lovers will appreciate the high-quality phono stage with both MM and MC inputs. No need for a separate preamp.
  • Digital streamers will find a clean, transparent DAC stage capable of handling their library’s full resolution.
  • Hybrid audiophiles, or those of us who want it all, will benefit from the MA9500’s flexibility: analogue warmth meets digital precision.

Building a System Around the MA9500

The McIntosh MA9500 amplifier is more than just another component. It’s a rather system-defining centrepiece that elevates everything around it. Whether you’re rediscovering old records or exploring the edge of digital audio, this amp gives your music room to breathe, and your ears something to believe in.

It’s not about following specifications when designing a system around it.  It’s about curating an experience that feels personal, powerful, and enduring. One that makes active enjoyment out of passive listening.

Choose the Right Source Components

Your source is your signal’s foundation, so give it the same attention as your amp and speakers. Fortunately, the MA9500 is versatile enough to accommodate nearly any high-end component.

For Vinyl

Choose a turntable with precision engineering and a cartridge that complements your musical taste. Think Clearaudio Concept, Rega Planar 10, or a Linn Majik LP12. Don’t overlook your cartridge and tonearm synergy. The MA9500’s built-in phono stage is excellent, but investing in a quality MC or MM cartridge brings out its best.

For Digital

Pair the MA9500 with a dedicated streamer like the Auralic Aries G2.1 or Naim ND5 XS 2. The DA2 module’s high-end DAC section means you don’t need to invest in an external DAC unless you’re going seriously exotic. Use the HDMI ARC input to integrate your television setup without compromising sound quality. Dialogue and soundtracks take on a whole new life through a McIntosh system.

Matching Speakers for Optimal Sound

The MA9500’s generous power and Autoformer design open up a wide range of speaker pairings. But synergy still matters. Here are some factors to consider for a heaven-made match.

  • Impedance flexibility. Thanks to the Autoformers, the MA9500 delivers 300W across 2, 4, or 8 ohms. That’s rare, and it allows you to experiment with speakers that demand power or finesse.
  • Transparency and balance. The MA9500 is clean and authoritative, so pair it with speakers that match its refinement. Avoid overly bright or clinical designs.

Speaker Suggestions:

  • Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4, for exceptional clarity and depth.
  • Sonus Faber Olympica Nova III. These are a touch warmer, beautiful with vocals and strings.
  • Focal Sopra N°2, modern, dynamic, and full of texture.
  • If space allows, floorstanders will give you the scale this amp deserves. For smaller rooms, high-efficiency standmounts like the Harbeth HL5 Plus XD still shine when driven well.

Cable Upgrades and Accessories that Make a Difference

I’ll say it: cables matter. Not because they “magically” transform your sound, but because a system at this level demands consistency.

  • Power cables. Use shielded cables to reduce noise and protect the dynamic range. Brands like Shunyata or Isotek are highly regarded.
  • Speaker cables. The innovative Solid CinchTM binding posts from McIntosh guarantee a solid, corrosion-free connection. Pair with bi-wire or bi-amp speaker cables if your speakers support it.
  • Interconnects. Balanced XLR connections (if your source supports them) will get you the cleanest signal path with the lowest noise floor.

Other accessories:

  • Dedicated mains conditioning helps eliminate interference from your household circuits.
  • Vibration isolation platforms under your amp or turntable can reveal subtle improvements in timing and clarity.

Room, Racks and Realism

  • Don’t ignore the room. Poor acoustics can hinder even the best setup.
  • To reduce reflections, use absorbers, diffusers, and rugs.
  • Position speakers away from walls and corners, and experiment with toe-in.
  • Invest in a high-quality hi-fi rack to support your equipment, both literally and acoustically.

Final Touches: Make It Yours

Once the main system is in place, the fun continues. Consider an external headphone amp for private listening. Although the MA9500 has a built-in headphone output, true headphone aficionados may want a dedicated stage.

Additionally, consider streaming apps and interfaces that use platforms like Roon or BluOS for intuitive library management and stunning sound quality. Smart integration adds control via smart remotes or apps and makes daily use seamless.

Ready to Experience It?

A setup like this is meant to be heard, not just read about. If you’re serious about getting the most from the MA9500, book a private demo in a dedicated listening space. Bring your favourite music. Hear what this amplifier can really do. Once you’ve heard it set free in the right system, there’s no going back. 

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Laura Coates, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo to Be Honored at WhyHunger’s 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala

Eric Alper
-
0
Laura Coates, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo to Be Honored at WhyHunger’s 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala

WhyHunger, a global nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger and advancing the human right to nutritious food, will honor CNN Chief Legal Analyst and Anchor Laura Coates with the inaugural Bill Ayres Social Justice Award, in honor of those who are driven by moral conviction to unite communities and fight for justice, at WhyHunger’s 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala on June 4, 2025, at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City – tickets here. The award, named in tribute to WhyHunger co-founder Bill Ayres, will be presented by CNN Senior National Correspondent and Anchor Sara Sidner.

CNN’s Laura Coates has become a powerful voice in the fight for social justice. A former trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, she championed voting rights enforcement, before serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. Now, as the host of CNN’s Laura Coates Live, she delivers sharp insight and clarity on the country’s most urgent legal and political issues.

“I am so humbled to be able to use my platform to democratize information and empower anyone and everyone to speak their own truth to power and uplift the most vulnerable among us!” said Coates.

Alongside Coates, the event will honor GRAMMY Award-winning artists and lifelong activists Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo with the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award, presented by New York Moves Magazine’s Moonah Ellison, recognizing philanthropic artists who have used their talent and global influence to inspire change and foster social justice. There will be special performances by Benatar and Giraldo, as well as members of The Fab Faux with Will Lee, Music Director.

Speaking about their upcoming award, Benatar and Giraldo shared, “We are deeply honored to receive the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award and to stand alongside WhyHunger in their tireless fight to end hunger. Music has always been a powerful force for change, and we believe in using our voices not just to entertain, but to inspire action. WhyHunger’s mission aligns with our lifelong commitment to justice and equity, and we are proud to support their work in ensuring that nutritious food is a fundamental right for all.”

The Chapin Awards Gala will bring together artists, activists, and supporters for a cocktail reception, dinner, and live music, all in support of WhyHunger’s mission to end hunger and its root causes. Previous recipients of the Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award include Barbra Streisand, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Grace Potter, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Harry Belafonte, Jackson Browne, Jason Mraz, John Mellencamp, Jon Batiste, Judy Collins, Pete Seeger, and Michael Franti.

In 2024, WhyHunger raised over $1 million from its annual Hungerthon campaign, including its Amplified: Annual Hungerthon Kickoff Concert, featuring performances by The Roots, Cimafunk, and Grace Bowers. In the last three years, WhyHunger has connected 3.3 million people to food and invested $5.1 million in community-led solutions globally. The Chapin Awards Gala raises critical funds to support WhyHunger’s work to end hunger and promote the human right to nutritious food.

Founded in 1975 by the late Harry Chapin and radio DJ Bill Ayres, WhyHunger funds and supports community solutions to protect the human right to food. In nearly five decades of innovation and evolution, our programs and our grassroots partners in 24 countries have expanded agricultural practices that are better for the planet, helped communities address the root causes of hunger, and ensured access to nutritious food for millions of people. As a grassroots support organization, we stand behind the leadership of the people most impacted by hunger and injustice. We prioritize providing resources to support the rights of communities who have been historically excluded from defining and controlling their food systems. We advocate for workers’ rights and champion agroecological food production that unites science and sustainability with Indigenous knowledge and wisdom. Together we can build socially and economically just food systems that nourish all people and the environment.

Kid Rock Doesn’t Care What You Think About His New Restaurant

Eric Alper
-
0
Kid Rock Doesn’t Care What You Think About His New Restaurant

There’s a new kind of electricity running through Capitol View, and it’s got Detroit roots, Nashville grit, and just the right amount of outlaw energy. The Detroit Cowboy, a high-octane mashup of legendary seafood institution Joe Muer Seafood and rock icon Kid Rock, is officially open at 500 11th Ave N, bringing together big flavor, bold design, and the kind of unfiltered vibe you’d expect from both Music City and Motor City’s most unapologetic son.

“The Detroit Cowboy isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a culinary ride like no other, where like-minded folks who love this country can dine in style. Whether you wear a bow tie, a bolo tie, or no tie—it’s all good. I re-designed this place to share some of my favorite milestones and personal artifacts—cool gifts and mementos from legends like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Eminem, Bob Seger, and Motown—to name a few, plus a few wild stories of my own as well as nods to musical heroes like Aretha, Stevie and both Hanks of course! The Detroit Cowboy is the only place on earth where Detroit grit and Nashville swagger collide for the finest dining hangout. The Vicaris and Joe Muer know fine dining, I know how to hang pictures, create a vibe, and make things fun!… all while still holding two middle fingers up high for the haters!” “To put it simply, I am here to take the foo-foo out of fine dining,” says Kid Rock.

But wait, there’s more. Enter “The Eagles Nest,” Kid Rock’s ultra-private dining room that makes VIP-friendly sections look like sad folding chairs at a school assembly. This is the South’s funkiest, most exclusive fine dining spot, complete with its own private entrance, bathroom, and just enough high-class white trash to make you feel like you’ve been personally invited to party with the man himself. Think of it as Kid Rock’s personal bro cave, but with taxidermy, linen napkins and bone-in ribeyes the size of small motorcycles.

Why ‘The Detroit Cowboy?’ Because nothing says ‘let’s eat like kings’ quite like sucking down fresh shucked oysters while Loretta Lynn stares at you from a framed photo and Bob Seger plays over the speakers. The Detroit Cowboy is what happens when two Motor City OGs collide: Kid Rock, who got his start galvanizing Detroit’s hip-hop scene before growing a mullet and moving to Nashville, and Joe Vicari, who resuscitated the iconic Joe Muer Seafood in 2011 and decided, ‘You know what? Let’s bring it to Nashville and let Kid Rock put his stamp on it.’

Originally founded in 1929 by the late Joe Muer, the restaurant became a benchmark for fine dining in Detroit. Vicari brought the name back to prominence across Michigan before expanding into Music City in 2023, with The Detroit Cowboy now representing a bold next chapter in 2025.

“We’ve built our name on quality, consistency, and hospitality—and now, with Kid Rock, we’re expanding our footprint. Under the culinary brilliance of Chef Marino Bianchi, guests will experience a culinary journey that celebrates two great American cities.” — Joe Vicari, owner of the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group

Prime cuts, bold flavors

Open for lunch, happy hour, and dinner to start, The Detroit Cowboy is all about high-quality eats with a high-energy edge. Servers wear classic white dinner jackets and bolo ties, a nod to throwback supper club swagger. But don’t let the sharp dress fool you—this place doesn’t stand on ceremony. You’ll find prime steaks, sustainable seafood, and a wine list curated by Napa Valley native and sommelier Scott Herrmann, along with a robust lineup of craft cocktails and ice-cold beer.

Menu standouts include:

* 32 oz Dry-Aged Tomahawk Ribeye

* Veal Chop Parmigiano with Pomodoro and Burrata

* Freedom Run Farm Barnsley Lamb Chop

* Surf & Turf: 8 oz Chairman’s Reserve Black Angus Filet & Tristan da Cunha Lobster Tail

* Shareables like Seafood Tower, Lobster Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Truffle Pomme Frites, and Fire Roasted Portabella Mushroom Caps with Beef Tips

And for the wild at heart, some cocktails even get the rockstar treatment with tableside finishing.

The décor? Straight-up iconic. You’ll dine surrounded by Kid Rock’s personal memorabilia, stories from the road, and gifts from musical legends—from Johnny Cash to Dolly Parton, Eminem to Bob Seger, and yes, even a few Motown heroes. It’s a crash course in American music history with a side of killer surf & turf.

To learn more about The Detroit Cowboy, check hours or location info, or beg for a reservation, visit thedetroitcowboy.com

Mirvish Announces Relaxed Performance of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ This August

Eric Alper
-
0
Mirvish Announces Relaxed Performance of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ This August

Producers David and Hannah Mirvish are proud to announce a special Relaxed Performance of the acclaimed Toronto production of Disney’s The Lion King. This will take place on Friday, August 1st 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Princess of Wales Theatre. “Relaxed performances are an essential part of our commitment to making the arts accessible to everyone,” said David and Hannah Mirvish. “We want all patrons to feel welcomed and comfortable, so they can fully enjoy the magic of live theatre.”

What is a Relaxed Performance? 

A Relaxed Performance is for members of the neurodivergent communities and anyone who might benefit from a more flexible atmosphere. These performances are designed for those who may find the conventions of a traditional theatre performance challenging – such as having the audience in darkness, not being able to come and go from your seat and not being allowed to be vocal during the performance. 

In a Relaxed Performance, some technical elements of the show itself are thoughtfully adapted to create a more inclusive and accessible experience, while maintaining the artistic integrity of the show. These include adjustments to sound and lighting, as well as a pre-show chat by one of the cast members.  

Audience members will also have access to pre-show resources, including detailed visual guides and videos to help familiarize themselves with the theatre space and show content. Front-of-house staff and performers have received training to ensure a supportive and understanding environment throughout the event.

Seating Options and Ticket Prices 

For Disney’s The Lion King Relaxed Performance, the Princess of Wales Theatre will offer two types of seating:  

  • Reserved seating, consistent with our regularly scheduled performances.
  • A specially designated “free-to-roam seating zone” in the dress circle. This zone allows patrons more freedom to stand and move, and greater flexibility in exiting the auditorium during the performance, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all attendees. In a continued commitment to fostering inclusivity and accessibility, ticket prices for this Relaxed Performance have been reduced across most price zones. Tickets for the Relaxed Performance of Disney’s The Lion King are available now at mirvish.com or by calling their box office at 1.800.461.3333.  

For more information about the relaxed performance, please visit: https://www.mirvish.com/shows/the-lion-king/relaxed-performance

Eamonn Forde’s ‘1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control’ Charts the Collapse of a Music Empire

Eric Alper
-
0
Eamonn Forde’s ‘1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control’ Charts the Collapse of a Music Empire

The record industry ruled the ‘90s. CDs were flying off shelves, profits soared, and executives popped champagne to celebrate the good times they thought would never end. But 1999, as Eamonn Forde expertly reveals, was the final party before the storm—the year the old system began to fall apart, one MP3 at a time.

In 1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control, Forde pulls back the velvet curtain on a business too big to fail—until it did. From the rise of Napster to the panic over piracy, from boardroom denial to dot-com chaos, this is the real story of how a digital revolution blindsided the gatekeepers. It wasn’t just about missed opportunities—it was about an entire industry culture cracking under the weight of change.

This isn’t nostalgia. It’s an autopsy. Told with insider insight and a journalist’s eye, 1999 explains how a year that started with dominance ended in disruption. If you love music history, digital disruption, or watching Goliath get knocked off balance, this is your next essential read.

John McLaughlin Returns With Electrifying ‘Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022’

Eric Alper
-
0
John McLaughlin Returns With Electrifying ‘Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022’

John McLaughlin makes his return with “Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022”.
This essential live album beautifully captures the seamless synergy between John and his longtime band The 4th Dimension on audio and HD video.

On July 11th, 2022, John returned to the Montreux Jazz Festival with The 4th Dimension and award-winning special guest Jany McPherson on piano and vocals. Delivering a masterclass in fusion to the audience of Stravinski Auditorium. Performing favorites such as ‘New Blues Old Bruise’, ‘El Hombre Que Sabia,’ as well as Pharoah Sanders’ ‘The Creator Has a Master Plan.’

John’s history with the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival spans 52 years as a headlining artist and sometime guest performer. Those who couldn’t be there now have the chance to see what they missed. Those who had the honor of being there can relive this monumental performance, available as a Blu-ray+2CD Digipak, 2 LP Gatefold and digital download on August 8th, 2025 worldwide via earMUSIC.

“I’ve said it many times before – The MJF is the greatest Festival in the world. Having played there since 1971, I’m in a good position to make that statement. The night of this particular recording was no exception and we musicians rose to the occasion. This performance is outstanding for all of us. There was joy, virtuosity, and a fantastic collective experience…“-John McLaughlin

“Abbaji” by John McLaughlin is a deeply emotional and nostalgic piece, dedicated to the tabla maestro Alla Rakha, also known as “Abbaji.” The song is a heartfelt tribute, reflecting McLaughlin’s profound respect and admiration for Alla Rakha’s contributions to music and his personal influence on McLaughlin’s musical journey.

Album:
Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022
Album Release: July 25th, 2025
Available as
Blu-ray+CD Digipak
2 LP (Black) Gatefold
Digital Download

Tracklisting (All Formats):

Side A:
1. Introduction (Blu-ray only)
2. Kiki
3. Lock Down Blues
4. The Creator Has a Master Plan

Side B:
5. Hijacked
6. Gaza City
7. Mr. DC
8. Abbaji

Side C:
9. New Blues Old Bruise
10. Here Come the Jiis
11. The Light at the Edge of the World

Side D:
12. Echoes From Then
13. El Hombre Que Sabia
14. Outro (Blu-ray only)
* Blu-ray/download video only

Remembering The Cosmic Violinist Simon House Who Made Music Boundless

Eric Alper
-
0
Remembering The Cosmic Violinist Simon House Who Made Music Boundless

Simon House always channeled something cosmic with his playing. From psychedelic violin solos to rich, textural synth layers, he left his mark on some of the most adventurous rock ever made. Whether backing up Bowie or bending time with Hawkwind, Simon made sound feel like stardust. His passing on May 25, 2025, at the age of 76, leaves a void in the universe — but his music remains as timeless as ever.

Here are ten unforgettable collaborations that show the range and brilliance of Simon House:

1. Hawkwind – ‘Warrior on the Edge of Time’ (1975)
Simon’s violin became the soul of Hawkwind’s space-rock explorations. On this album, he brought elegance and chaos in equal measure, pushing the band into new sonic galaxies alongside Lemmy and Nik Turner.

2. David Bowie – ‘Stage’ (1978) & ‘Lodger’ (1979)
Joining Bowie’s Isolar II tour and recording Stage live, House added psychedelic swirl and moody keys to Bowie’s late-’70s experimentation. On Lodger, his work on “Boys Keep Swinging” made art-rock unforgettable.

3. High Tide – ‘Sea Shanties’ (1969)
This early psych-prog project was where Simon swapped bass for violin and began bending genres. His electrified violin lines were both feral and classical, setting the tone for the rest of his career.

4. Michael Moorcock & The Deep Fix – ‘New Worlds Fair’ (1975)
Bridging music and literature, Simon joined this sci-fi rock project by famed author Moorcock. His contributions brought a haunting, cinematic depth to a record steeped in imagination.

5. Thomas Dolby – “She Blinded Me With Science” (1982)
Even in a new wave synthpop hit, House found a way to leave his mark. His background textures elevated Dolby’s quirky style with classically-trained finesse.

6. Robert Calvert – ‘Lucky Leif and the Longships’ (1975)
In this Viking-themed concept album, House provided the dramatic sweep. His playing gave mythological flair to Calvert’s eccentric storytelling, fusing theatre and rock.

7. Japan – ‘Tin Drum’ (1981)
Simon’s work with David Sylvian’s band Japan brought warmth and mystery to their minimalist aesthetic. His textures helped define the band’s sophisticated, Far Eastern-influenced sound.

8. Mike Oldfield – “Crises” (1983, deluxe edition)
House added his signature to Oldfield’s sprawling, layered sonic universe. Their styles meshed perfectly — both keen on mixing the experimental with the melodic.

9. Nik Turner – ‘Space Gypsy’ (2013)
Reuniting with a fellow Hawkwind alumnus, House added lush keys and cosmic ambience to Turner’s later solo work. Even in his later years, Simon never lost his taste for the interstellar.

10. Judy Dyble – ‘Enchanted Garden’ (2004)
With the former Fairport Convention singer, Simon traded space rock for pastoral beauty. His gentle, expressive violin wove seamlessly into folk textures, showing his depth as a collaborator.

1...627628629...3,013Page 628 of 3,013

Follow us on Instagram @thatericalper

That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

Popular posts

Popular category

© Copyright - That Eric Alper